[joesbucks]

Here's the problem. Because of the divisions of denominations, it is difficult to, even by reading to come to a sound conclusion. First there is one bias. Second there is bias from pastoral leaders. Then there is bias among our peers within the church. That is a ton of pressure to overcome to get to the truth. And even worse, each of the above can show you chapter and verse likely where they are supported by scripture.

[AD from SpringBay]

Here's the problem. Because of the divisions of denominations, it is difficult to, even by reading to come to a sound conclusion. First there is one bias. Second there is bias from pastoral leaders. Then there is bias among our peers within the church. That is a ton of pressure to overcome to get to the truth.

To answer the question, "What does this mean?" is an entirely different thing from answering, "What does this mean to me?" We are constantly driven think in terms of a personal application for everything. Yet the Bible means something - and I (speaking as a believer) need to understand that I am clay. I am the one that needs forming. God's Word is already formed. We have to find out what it means.

And then, something every believer also decides, whether they realize it or not, is what role will non-Biblical sources play in their lives of faith? Do you take the Bible as the sole rule of faith, or do you take traditions, the writings of "church fathers", etc... to also play a part?

It is confusing, but that doesn't mean we still shouldn't try.